A dying policeman managed to draw his firearm in a final heroic bid to protect his colleagues after they were ambushed by a gunman a week ago.
This was revealed by Colonel Celani Sihali, a commander at Delft Police Station, at the memorial service for Constable Songezo Khetiwe.
The St. Matthew’s Anglican Church in Voorbrug, Delft, was packed on Thursday as family, friends and colleagues came to honour the fallen hero.
Also in attendance was Police Minister Bheki Cele and Western Cape Police Commissioner Khombinkosi Jula, who laid wreaths in front of the Delft Police Station.
Police Minister Bheki Cele and Western Cape Police Commissioner Khombinkosi Jula was also in attendance. Picture: Jack Lestrade
This was followed by a candle lighting ceremony and hymns being sung.
Khetiwe, an unmarried father of two, had been on patrol with two colleagues in Spekboom Street on 21 July when a lone gunman opened fire on them just before 1am.
Khetiwe was shot in the head while his colleagues were wounded.
A wounded Khetiwe got out of the vehicle and tried to shoot their attacker, but collapsed on the pavement.
Other cops responding to the shooting shot and injured the suspect and arrested him.
On Thursday, Sihali revealed Khetiwe had been in the police force for three years and was the breadwinner of his family.
He said the officer had an unblemished record and died in the line of duty.
Colonel Celani Sihali commander at Delft Police Station. Picture: Jack Lestrade
“He served the community with distinction,” said Sihali.
“He was shot inside the vehicle, but didn’t die there. He was found outside, facing downward and had his firearm ready. He was a man of value.”
Jula said it’s clear criminals no longer value the lives of cops, but warned cops will show no mercy.
“Month after month we bury our young officials who are supposed to be providing safety and are supposed to be protected. It’s clear that criminals have no regard for our officials.
“To the criminals who target the police, you do not know what is in store for you.”
Police Minister Bheki Cele at the wreath-laying ceremony of Constable Songezo Khetiwe. Picture: Jack Lestrade